Monique’s Weblog

Here are some extra tips to help you land assignments:

-          Include samples (or sometimes your resume) in your proposal, even if the employer didn’t ask for them. It will make you look more professional, and might be the difference that will land you a job.

-          Do you have a special skill? Look for jobs where it is in demand. For example, there are many writing projects available, but only a few French ones. That’s where I always look first, because there is way less competition.

-          Don’t apply to projects too many people had already bid on.  While you might be absolutely qualified for a project, if there are already 91 other bids on that project, it’s unlike that the employer will even get to your proposal. So unless you’re among the first bidders, look for jobs with less competition, where you’re more likely to get noticed.

-          Be consistent! Don’t just apply once in a while, and then wonder why you can’t get an assignment.  Apply at least twice a week, and always look for the jobs that suit you best.

To land a project, you have to submit a bid that catches the attention of the client. In order to do so, you must submit a proposal that catches the client’s attention. Don’t write generic proposals that don’t specifically address the job requirement. While it might sound convenient to have a generic proposal template that you use for all your bids, doing so won’t help you land any assignment. Here are some important things to keep in mind when writing a great proposal:

 ·         Impress upon the client that you understand what is needed. There is no need to repeat every word that was written in the job description, but you can include some clues in your proposal.

·         Explain why you’re the best candidate for the job. If you’ve previously accomplished this type of job in the past, you’ll increase your chances of getting that job. If not, then list all the attributes that make you the best person for that job. Remember, your client wants to know why you’re the best choice for that job.

·         Don’t apply to jobs you’re not qualified for. You’ll only be loosing your time. If you’re an article writer and have absolutely no sales knowledge, then don’t bid on a copywriting job. Not only will you loose both you and your client’s time, but it will make you look less credible.

For example, here is how not to write a job proposal:

I’m the perfect person for this job. I have a lot of experience in this field and I have enclosed one of my latest works in this field. My bid is pretty reasonable and I can deliver the work to you as fast as you need it.

A good bid, though, might look like this:

I’m interested in working on your project. I have xxx years of experience in sales and customer service. I’ve worked as a telemarker for xx company for more than over xxx years. I can effectively convince people to buy your product over the phone, and help your company grow. I’m available to start working now, and would like the opportunity to discuss this further with you.